Arroz Chaufa

[Sussan Estela Olaya]

Hi Kevin,
Traditional Peruvian arroz chaufa does not include cumin or oyster sauce among its classic ingredients. It’s a dish of Chinese-Cantonese influence adapted to Peruvian tastes, and it typically includes:

▪️White rice (preferably from the day before)

▪️Egg (scrambled or cooked like an omelet and chopped)

▪️Scallions (both the white and green parts)

▪️Soy sauce (sillao)

▪️Oil (sometimes with a few drops of sesame oil)

▪️A source of protein: chicken, beef, pork, seafood, etc.

▪️Garlic and ginger (optional, depending on the recipe)

What about cumin or oyster sauce?Cumin: This is not typical of traditional chaufa. It’s more common in Peruvian creole stews like adobo or seco. If it’s added, it’s a personal or regional variation, but not part of the original version.
Oyster sauce: Also not a common ingredient in traditional chaufa, although some modern cooks or “gourmet chifa” versions may include it to add extra umami. It’s totally valid to use it if you like, but it’s not traditional.
If you’re following a recipe that includes these ingredients, it’s likely a creative or fusion-style version of chaufa, rather than the classic kind you’d find in traditional Peruvian chifa restaurants.
I hope this information is helpful!

Best regards.

Sussan Scoolinary Team

[Kevin Godbee]

Thank you Sussan! I will leave them out.

[Sussan Estela Olaya]

Perfect, Kevin!
I’m glad the information was helpful. I’m sure your chaufa will turn out delicious with the traditional flavors. And if one day you feel like giving it a twist like adding oyster sauce that’s perfectly fine too! Cooking is also about experimenting and enjoying the process.

If you have any questions or curiosities, I’m here and happy to help.

Warm regards,
Sussan Scoolinary Team

[Sol Damiani]

Hi Chef Kev, @kevin-godbee
When are you heading to Peru?
We can’t wait to hear what you think about the food there!

Best regards

[Kevin Godbee]

The second half of October – 14th-31st. Cusco and Lima.

[Sol Damiani]

Sounds amazing @kevin-godbee !
Do you already have plans to meet up with any fellow chefs or culinary colleagues while you’re there? I’m sure they’d love to share their perspective on Peruvian cuisine with you.
Take care!

[Kevin Godbee]

So far we have a cooking class just for fun. It is 3.5 hours making and eating causa (chicken and potato), lomo saltado, ceviche and pisco sour.

We have a few restaurants reserved.

Cusco – Morena, Campo Cocina Andina, OQRE.

Lima – Astrid & Gaston, Siete, Osaka, Kjolle, Mayta, Isolina.

There are several more on our list, but we can’t make reservations until 30 days out.

[Sol Damiani]

This is a great shedule/wishlist @kevin-godbee 😍

Would you recommend something truly special as locals @sussan_scoolinaryteam @emilyscoolinarycom (part of Scoolinary’s Content Team) @elizabeth (Email Marketing)

Wishing you a great trip already, Kev!